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Head-to-head
Tesla Model 3 vs Polestar 2
Premium EV saloons — Supercharger network vs European polish.
Specs & ownership
| Spec | Tesla Model 3 | Polestar 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Years | 2019–2024 | 2020–2024 |
| Type | Saloon | Saloon |
| Engine (typical) | Electric | Electric |
| Power | 283–513 hp | 231–476 hp |
| Fuel | Electric | Electric |
| Economy | 3.5–4.5 mi/kWh | 3.2–3.8 mi/kWh |
| 0–60 | 8.5–12.5 sec 0–60 mph | 8.5–12.5 sec 0–60 mph |
| Boot | 425 litres + frunk | 480 litres |
| Insurance group | Typically groups 12–28, depending on trim and power | Typically groups 12–28, depending on trim and power |
| Road tax (indicative) | Often £0 standard rate — confirm current GOV.UK rules and any expensive-car supplement | Often £0 standard rate — confirm current GOV.UK rules and any expensive-car supplement |
| Running costs / yr | ~£1,508–£2,382 / year | ~£1,528–£2,322 / year |
| Oil | No engine oil — gearbox/drive-unit fluid is specialist | No engine oil — follow EV reduction-gear / coolant schedule |
| Tyre pressure | Often ~42 PSI recommended — check app/sticker | Often ~32–38 PSI cold — door sticker is law for loading |
| ULEZ | Zero tailpipe emissions — generally ULEZ exempt (confirm current TfL rules) | Zero tailpipe emissions — generally ULEZ exempt (confirm current TfL rules) |
| Common fault #1 | Panel gap and paint quality variance | 12V issues |
| Best for | Drivers with home charging wanting EV pace. | Premium EV buyers who want something other than a Model 3. |
Tesla Model 3 — watch for
- Panel gap and paint quality variance
- Suspension arm wear on UK roads
- 12V / low-voltage battery issues on some years
Running costs ~£1,508–£2,382 / year
Polestar 2 — watch for
- 12V issues
- Suspension wear on Performance
- Paint / panel quirks
Running costs ~£1,528–£2,322 / year